Vision and Mission

Vision

Penn State Altoona is committed to being a distinguished baccalaureate institution within the contextual framework of The Pennsylvania State University. Our vision combines the rich educational tradition of a liberal arts college with the challenges and opportunities found at a modern university. We strive to create a vibrant learning environment through our teaching excellence, research and creative accomplishments, and civic, social, and cultural contributions in order to empower students to reach their full potential.

For all of our constituents, we will serve as a source of intellectual and developmental exchange on three levels.

Source for Human Development

Source for Economic Development

Source for Cultural Enrichment

Mission

Penn State Altoona's mission is to engage our students, the local community, and the Commonwealth in the application and dissemination of knowledge through our teaching, research and outreach programs supported by a diverse and intellectually sustaining environment.

Core values

Learning

Student-Centeredness

Excellence

Citizenship

Community

Strategic Goals

Goal 1Cultivate academic excellence through the support of high-quality teaching, research and service.

Goal 2Enrich the educational experience of all Penn State students by becoming a more student-centered University.

Goal 3Create a more inclusive, civil, and diverse University learning community.

Goal 4Develop new academic programs as resources allow, and continue to expand current academic programs to better serve our students and their communities.

Goal 5Serve society through teaching, research and creative activity, and service.

Goal 6Develop new sources of non-tuition income, increase tuition income through enrollment growth, and reduce costs through improved efficiencies.